Friday, Jan 31, 2025
Dear friends at St. Mark,
This week, Bishop Rick Jaech sent a letter to all congregations and rostered leaders in the Southwestern Washington Synod. His letter is in response to the inauguration of President Donald Trump and recent actions of our new administration. Bishop Jaech includes links to resources and an invitation to action and conversation. He includes his email in case you would like to correspond directly with him. Bishop Jaech’s letter, “Watchfulness and Response,” is posted on our website and can be read here:
In addition, Bishop Jaech co-wrote a letter with the other Region One Bishops regarding the new administration’s executive orders on immigration. This letter is posted on our website. You can read their letter here:
Likewise, a letter from ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has been posted to our website. Her letter includes links to other ELCA documents and resources. You can read her letter here:
Why are our Bishop’s writing letters? Scripture has much to tell us about God’s concern and compassion for all people, especially for the vulnerable poor and the foreigners living among us. As people of faith, we have a Christian calling to live out God’s vision for humanity and a civic duty to be aware of what is happening in our communities, our country, and our world. Our Bishops are encouraging us to do both. As you read these letters from our ELCA church leaders and review church related resources, Pastor Eric and I are open to talking about these things with you.
Please continue to pray for our country, our nation’s leaders, our church leaders, our communities and all God’s people.
Peace of Christ,
Pastor Beth